Overview
The RDI Scheme was approved by the Union Cabinet on 1 July 2025 and launched by the Prime Minister on 3 November 2025. Its aim is to attract private investment in high‑risk, high‑impact technologies by offering financial assistance that is not a conventional grant but a mix of long‑term, low‑interest loans, equity and equity‑linked instruments.
Key Developments
- Two TDB and BIRAC each received ₹1,000 crore under the scheme, totalling ₹2,000 crore.
- ₹500 crore was disbursed to TDB in March 2026 for onward financing of eligible technology entities.
- TDB has approved 22 projects with a total cost of ₹4,744 crore, of which ₹2,192 crore is covered by the scheme.
- BIRAC has shortlisted 8 projects for a combined support of ₹390.35 crore.
- The scheme does not provide direct grants; all assistance is through low‑interest long‑term loans and equity instruments.
Important Facts
The evaluation framework is distinct from ordinary commercial lending. An empowered Investment Committee reviews applications using criteria such as degree of innovation, TRL, market potential, management capability and strategic impact. Traditional parameters like collateral are secondary.
The scheme is pan‑India. It does not earmark funds for any state, city or region. Proposals are evaluated by multiple